Trigger warning: This blog post discusses baby loss which may be upsetting for some readers
UWE Bristol and Cardiff Metropolitan University are undertaking a new research study to understand Fathers experiences of stillbirth and neonatal death.
Pregnancy loss and neonatal death are experienced by millions of families worldwide each year.
In 2021, there were 2,866 stillbirths in the UK and 1,719 neonatal deaths (occurring in the first 28 days of life) in England and Wales. (Tommy’s, 2023). However, despite events like Baby Loss Awareness Week (October 9th-15th 2023) it is a subject that is rarely discussed.
Bereaved parents can feel guilt, shame and marginalisation.
Typically, academic research looking at pregnancy loss and neonatal death has focused on women.
The study, led by Dr Liam McCarthy and Dr Leanne McCarthy-Cotter, is looking for bereaved fathers who are willing to share their experiences of Stillbirth, Termination for Medical Reasons, Neonatal Death, and Infant Death.
The study aims to develop an understanding of fathers’ experiences and capture their voice. The study also seeks to explore the immediate death and aftermath of the death of a baby, but also how fathers’ live with, and parent, a baby who has died.
The research will look at grief, coping mechanisms, strategies, and forms of expression that fathers develop after the death of a child.
Informal interviews can take place face-to-face or online. The interview would discuss a father’s experience of stillbirth or neonatal death, and then the aftermath of the death itself.
Dr Liam McCarthy, Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Relations, and the UWE Bristol lead for this research commented:
By enriching our understanding of the father’s experience we can inform the development of appropriate support for fathers and families.
If you have any questions or interested in taking part in the research, please contact:
- Dr Leanne McCarthy-Cotter: lmccarthy-cotter@cardiffmet.ac.uk
- Dr Liam McCarthy: liam.mccarthy@uwe.ac.uk.uk